Could you give a cat a fresh start in life?

Important decision: there are many things to consider when taking in a catCredit:
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19 August 2016 • 9:00am

Harriet Porter

Taking in a rescue cat can be very rewarding but it’s important to plan carefully first.

The average cat can live until the age of 20, so before you make the decision to give a rescue animal a new home, it is important to think about your lifestyle and future plans.

Get some idea of the financial commitment by asking a local vet for a breakdown of the costs involved in cat care. It is also worth researching pet insurance options.

She advises: “Consider whether a cat or kitten is best for your family. A kitten is generally a better choice if you have young children as they can play and grow up together. Older cats may be more suited to quieter households with older children or adults only.”

If you would like an outdoor cat then you need safe outdoor space, not too close to a busy road. Measures must be taken to avoid the cat being hurt by traffic, such as keeping it in at night.

Don’t smother your new pet; it will engage with you when it’s ready

“If your cat will stay indoors, extra provisions are needed such as litter trays, toys, scratch posts and access to high-up areas that it can explore, such as secure shelves or wardrobe and cupboard surfaces,” says Holt. When you bring your new cat home for the first time, it will be nervous and anxious. “Everyone in the house, especially children and other cats, must slowly familiarise themselves with the newcomer, allowing it to have its own space where it can retreat if necessary.”

Holt adds: “The night before your pet arrives, set aside a room equipped with food and water bowls, bedding, litter tray, scratch post and toys, which should all be spaced out. A couple of cardboard boxes will provide hiding places. Remove precious ornaments or poisonous plants.

“On the day of collection, make sure all windows and doors are shut. Take a cat carrier and ask the rescue centre for a piece of the animal’s bedding to give it a familiar smell. Do not place the carrier in the boot or loose in the foot well of your car, but on the seat, secured with a seat belt.”

Consider whether a cat or kitten is best for your family. A kitten is generally a better choice if you have young children

At home, put the carrier in the allocated room and allow the cat to explore its new environment. Be patient, and leave the door open for the first few days so the cat can venture further afield. Sometimes rescue cats have behavioural problems, such as spraying in the house, excessive hiding or refusing to use a litter tray. “If you see any concerning behaviours, consult your vet,” says Holt. “There is often a simple explanation: for example, the litter may have been changed to a new brand too quickly. It’s all about understanding your cat’s needs.

“Don’t smother your new pet; it will engage with you when it’s ready. Spend some time playing at floor level, and get it used to being groomed, as this can be a positive bonding experience throughout your life together.”

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*Terms and conditions apply. £1 will be donated to Guide Dogs for the first 10,000 promotional bags of 1.5kg, 7.5kg or 12kg purchased from the ROYAL CANIN® Breed Health Nutrition range between 9 October and 29 December 2017. Available in participating pet shops across the UK. While stocks last. ROYAL CANIN® has the right to withdraw this promotion at any time. The customer will not be charged for this promotion. Supporting Guide Dogs, a charity registered in England and Wales (209617) and Scotland (SC038979).